Category: News

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AMA School of Medicine Brings Compassionate Care to La Union Through “Lab for All” Program

In a powerful display of service and solidarity, the AMA School of Medicine (ASM/AMASOM) took part in the third leg of the nationwide “Lab for All” program held in San Juan, La Union. The initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady under the leadership of Liza Araneta-Marcos, continues to expand access to essential health and social services for underserved Filipino communities.

Bringing Government Services Closer to the People

The “Lab for All” program reflects a vision of inclusive, people-centered governance—one that ensures no community is left behind. Designed to deliver integrated services directly to grassroots areas, the initiative offers medical care, social protection, livelihood support, and digital assistance, particularly benefiting families in remote and marginalized sectors.

For residents of 41 barangays in San Juan, the outreach was more than just an event—it was an opportunity to receive quality healthcare without the usual barriers of distance and cost.

1,476 Lives Touched Through Free Medical Services

As part of its mission to develop socially responsive and globally competitive medical professionals, ASM deployed a dedicated medical team to provide:

    • Free medical consultations
    • Basic health screenings
    • Risk assessment services

The effort successfully served 1,476 patients and community members, underscoring ASM’s commitment to real-world, community-based healthcare delivery.

A Strong Network of Collaboration

The success of the program was made possible through close coordination among several government agencies and local partners, including:

    • Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
    • Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
    • Department of Health (DOH)
    • PhilHealth
    • Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
    • Department of Agriculture (DA)
    • Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO)
    • Public Attorney’s Office (PAO)
    • The Local Government Unit of San Juan, La Union

This inter-agency collaboration highlighted how coordinated public service can create meaningful and measurable impact at the community level.

Leadership in Action

Leading the medical mission was Dean Michael Maniwa, alongside faculty physicians Dr. John Rey Gonzales, Dr. Jonathan Iledan, and Dr. Eric De Leon. Their presence exemplified ASM’s standards of clinical excellence, professionalism, and compassionate care.

Supporting them were four foreign medical clerks enrolled at ASM—an inspiring reflection of the institution’s growing international community. Assigned to the Risk Assessment Station, the clerks conducted preliminary screenings, patient triage, and coordinated with partner agencies. Their involvement not only strengthened service delivery but also provided invaluable hands-on experience in community health work.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

ASM’s participation reinforced its strong emphasis on experiential learning. By engaging both local and international students in national public health initiatives, the school fosters cultural sensitivity, teamwork, and patient-centered competencies—essential qualities for modern physicians.

More than just a medical outreach, the “Lab for All” program served as a living classroom—where academic knowledge met community realities, and where future doctors learned the true meaning of service.

A Continuing Commitment to Public Health

Through its active involvement, the AMA School of Medicine reaffirms its role as a vital partner in advancing accessible, responsive, and integrated public services. As part of the AMA Education System, ASM continues to strengthen its position as a leading medical institution that integrates academic excellence, global perspective, and social responsibility.

Looking ahead, ASM remains committed to supporting future legs of the “Lab for All” program—contributing to preventive care, population health, and collaborative public service while shaping competent, compassionate, and community-oriented physicians for the Philippines and beyond.

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MIAS 2026 Expands to PTTC, Adds 3,000 sqm Exhibition Space

The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) will expand its footprint in 2026 with the return of the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) as an additional exhibition venue, organizers announced.

Scheduled from April 9 to 12, 2026, the country’s premier motoring event will continue to hold its main exhibition at the World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) while simultaneously utilizing the PTTC for the first time in eight years.

The PTTC last served as a secondary venue during MIAS 2018. After undergoing redevelopment into a design hub, its inclusion in the 2026 edition marks a significant milestone for the show and signals a return to a familiar space for long-time attendees.

With the addition of PTTC, MIAS 2026 will gain over 3,000 square meters of exhibition space, accommodating nearly 100 additional vehicle display slots. The expanded area will also feature a dedicated food court and special exhibits aimed at enhancing the overall visitor experience.

To ensure seamless access between venues, organizers will install a custom-built, fully air-conditioned linkway connecting the East Wing Annex tent of the World Trade Center directly to the PTTC building. Located at the corner of Roxas Boulevard and Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, PTTC will also serve as an alternative access point for visitors. A free shuttle service will transport guests either back to the World Trade Center entrance driveway or to designated nearby parking areas.

The expansion brings the total MIAS 2026 exhibition footprint to approximately 22,500 square meters of combined indoor and outdoor display space, further solidifying its position as the largest automotive event in the Philippines.

Organizers said the expanded capacity will allow more automotive brands, technology showcases, aftermarket exhibitors, and interactive displays to participate. The event continues to position itself as a comprehensive platform for the industry, highlighting advancements in electrified mobility, automotive technology, and lifestyle segments.

Additional details on exhibitors, feature attractions, and ticketing are expected to be announced in the coming months.

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SM Group Recognized by DENR for Driving Real Change in Plastic Recovery and Waste Management

Sustainability is no longer just a corporate responsibility—it is a national priority. And this year, the SM Group has once again proven that large-scale business can lead to meaningful environmental action.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) formally recognized the SM Group for its comprehensive and coordinated efforts in supporting the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Program. The initiative, anchored on Republic Act No. 11898, or the EPR Law of 2022, is designed to reduce plastic use, increase recovery of plastic packaging, and strengthen waste management systems nationwide.

But what sets SM apart is that its initiatives go far beyond compliance.

A Group-Wide Commitment to Circularity

During the awarding event held on January 30, 2026, the DENR highlighted SM’s unified, group-wide approach in “advancing recovery, reduction, innovation, and inclusive circular economy practices”—all aligned with the government’s Zero Waste to Nature agenda.

“This award is a credit to every part of the SM group,” said Timothy Daniels, Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability at SM Investments Corporation. “From our retail business to our banks and logistics companies, each has played a role in reducing plastic footprints and influencing consumers to use less plastic.”

It’s a sustainability strategy that integrates operations, infrastructure, and consumer behavior—creating impact at every level.

Turning Waste into Opportunity

At the forefront of SM’s environmental initiatives is SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through its flagship #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign. A key milestone under this program is its partnership with Japanese waste processing firm Guun Co., Ltd., which led to the establishment of a waste processing facility in Consolacion, Cebu. This facility converts waste into reusable materials—transforming what was once discarded into valuable resources.

Across SM properties nationwide, specially labeled RDC bins—for Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable waste—have been installed to streamline waste segregation.

    • Recyclables such as bottles, cans, and paper are sent to recycling facilities.

    • Disposables like cups, straws, and rags are converted into alternative fuel for cement kilns.

    • Compostables, including food scraps, are processed into landscaping soil within 48 hours.

“GUUN is a collaboration across the Group that ensures consumption or waste is not the end of the economic cycle,” explained George Cheung, President of SM GUUN and Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions at SM Supermalls.

The goal is clear: keep materials in circulation and prevent them from ending up in nature.

Empowering Communities Through Practical Solutions

SM’s sustainability efforts extend beyond infrastructure and into community engagement.

SM Supermalls continues its long-running Trash-to-Cash (TTC) recycling market, a monthly initiative held across malls nationwide. Through TTC, customers can exchange recyclable materials—including paper, plastic, metal, and even old appliances—for cash. The program facilitates the recycling of over 1.5 million kilograms of waste annually. Additionally, E-Waste Collection bins are available in Cyberzone areas, while Plastic Waste Collection vans operate in 15 SM malls.

Meanwhile, SM Markets—which includes SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore—has been encouraging customers to shift away from single-use plastics since 2007. In 2025 alone, SM Markets sold 20.8 million Green Bags, preventing an estimated 31.2 million plastic bags from entering circulation.

Practical, Scalable, and Impactful

For SM, the fight against plastic pollution isn’t about one big gesture—it’s about consistent, practical, and commercially viable actions implemented across its entire ecosystem.

“When we look at plastics, which is a significant problem in the Philippines, we have taken a range of actions across the group,” Daniels emphasized. “What they have in common is that they are practical, commercially viable, and they create meaningful differences in addressing the plastics problem.”

Leading Toward a Waste-Free Future

Through #SMWasteFreeFuture, SM has consolidated sustainability initiatives into a unified system that reinforces its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable communities.

The DENR recognition serves not just as an award but as validation that collaborative, large-scale corporate action can support national environmental goals.

As the Philippines continues its push toward a circular economy, SM’s integrated approach demonstrates that businesses—when aligned with purpose—can help turn waste challenges into sustainable opportunities.

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Addressing the Brain Drain: How the SM Group Is Bringing Higher Education Back to the Regions

For decades, many Filipinos have left their hometowns in search of quality education and better career opportunities—often concentrating talent in urban centers while leaving provincial communities underserved. Today, the SM Group, through National University (NU), is helping reverse that trend by bringing accessible, high-quality higher education closer to home.

With a growing presence outside Metro Manila, National University is not only educating students—it is creating jobs, nurturing local talent, and strengthening regional economies.

Expanding Access Beyond Metro Manila

National University now serves more than 84,000 students across its nationwide campuses, with seven campuses located outside Metro Manila. These include NU Bacolod, NU Laguna, NU Baliwag, NU Dasmariñas, NU Lipa, NU Clark, and the newest campus, NU Cebu, which opened this academic year.

What stands out is NU’s strong commitment to local employment. NU Cebu currently boasts 100% local hires, while NU Bacolod employs 96% local staff, NU Laguna 99%, NU Baliwag 98%, NU Dasmariñas 96%, NU Lipa 98%, and NU Clark 97%. These numbers highlight NU’s deliberate effort to provide professional opportunities within the regions they serve.

By offering quality education and employment in provincial areas, NU allows professors, administrators, and students to build meaningful careers without leaving their hometowns.

Standardized Compensation, Stronger Talent Retention

One of NU’s key strategies in addressing brain drain is its standardized compensation package across all campuses nationwide. This approach ensures competitive and equitable salaries regardless of location, making provincial postings more attractive to educators and professionals.

“We bring talent back to the provinces,” said NU President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos Ermita. “NU offers a standardized salary matrix applicable to all our employees across the country. This approach has helped make our recruitment more appealing to applicants in provincial regions.”

NU President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos Ermita

By aligning education, labor, and development goals, NU helps reduce inequality between urban and rural areas—strengthening local ecosystems for long-term growth.

Education as a Catalyst for Community Development

NU’s expansion also reflects the SM Group’s vision of responsible community development. Most NU campuses are situated within SM’s social ecosystem, offering students and employees accessibility, safety, and convenience.

“NU is part of SM’s corporate social responsibility,” Dr. Ermita shared. “By allowing campuses to be part of the SM community, accessibility is achieved and affordability is maintained. Transportation hubs are also located near most mall-based campuses, ensuring convenience and safety for students and employees.”

This integrated approach helps communities retain educational talent while reinforcing access to social and economic opportunities.

Coming Home: Stories from NU Cebu

At NU Cebu, the impact of this mission is deeply personal. One of the campus’ returning locals is Executive Director Johanna Minglana, who shared how the opening of NU Cebu allowed her to return home after decades in Manila.

“NU Cebu allowed me to come full circle in my birthplace while continuing my academic career,” Minglana said. She noted that many faculty and staff share similar sentiments—finding purpose in meaningful work without being separated from their families and communities.

According to Minglana, NU Cebu represents more than an academic institution. “It embodies SM’s vision of being a catalyst for community development. It creates jobs not only within the university but also for surrounding businesses—from food establishments and boarding houses to transportation and retail.”

Building the Future, Locally

As National University recently marked its 125th founding anniversary, thousands of alumni gathered to celebrate its legacy and continued commitment to providing world-class, life-ready education. Whether in urban centers or provincial communities, NU remains focused on preparing graduates to thrive wherever opportunity takes them.

By bringing higher education to the regions, NU and the SM Group are proving that talent doesn’t have to leave home to grow—and that meaningful development begins by investing in communities where people already belong.

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Gawad Alunig x Dalumat: Steady Champions of Homegrown Ingenuity

DOST-TAPI’s annual campaign elevates Filipino innovations and the voices that propel them

Since 2022, the Technology Application and Promotion Institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-TAPI) has been amplifying Filipino ingenuity through the Gawad Alunig x Dalumat (GAxD).

Developed at a time when the Philippines was reeling from the global pandemic, this national campaign leveraged the power of storytelling to highlight homegrown technologies. It also served as a response to the proliferation of disinformation and misinformation, particularly with various misconceptions and false claims on science and technology.

2022 – 2024: Empowering Science Stories through Citizen Journalism

The pilot GAxD campaign in 2022 focused on excellence in Citizen Science Journalism. Gawad Alunig spotlighted the Best KALIPUNAN Science Youth Correspondents who produced engaging newscasts. On the other hand,  Gawad Dalumat honored outstanding school-based science publications.

Tapping into the value of grassroots storytelling, the inaugural GAxD generated close to 500 invention leads and contributed to a 25% increase in DOST-TAPI’s approved funding proposals.

For the second edition, GAxD maintained the same citizen science journalism format but further evolved into a nationwide campaign to encourage innovators that could join the  Regional Invention Contest and Exhibit (ClusteRICE).

 That year’s campaign focused on the critical contribution of science and technology in major sectors of society, from agriculture, education, livelihood, health, disaster management, and engineering. By contextualizing innovation within real-world issues, GAxD contextualized the relevance of science and technology in daily life.

In 2023, the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) honored the DOST-TAPI’s GAxD campaign with a Silver Anvil Award under the Specialized PR Program Category. Further, Marketing-Interactive Philippines also recognized the campaign with a Gold Award for Excellence in Relationship Marketing.

In addition to these triumphs, the campaign sparked a 200% surge in invention proposals and the nationwide production of dozens of science newscasts and publications—clear evidence of community-driven storytelling’s impact.

Building on the campaign’s award-winning momentum, GAxD was deliberately structured to generate proposals for its third edition in 2024. Cash awards were increased to strengthen participation.

The 2024 campaign spotlighted the technologies focused on Tech-Trans, small businesses, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs). It further strengthened journalistic standards in science reporting among student publications while intensifying public engagement on issues vital to nation-building.

2025: Empowering Innovation Stories through Creative Advertising

 The latest GAxD edition marked a new chapter with a strong emphasis on science visual storytelling through creative advertising. Through this shift, DOST-TAPI aims to open opportunities for more Filipino storytellers to join the conversation and amplify community ingenuity.

Moreover, stakes are higher than ever with prizes of up to PHP 75,000 for the Gawad Alunig (Audio-Visual Category) grand winner and PHP 60,000 for the Gawad Dalumat (Photo Essay Feature Category) champion.

For more information about the GAxD campaign, please visit TAPI.DOST.gov.ph and follow DOST-TAPI on Facebook. To learn more about GAxD, you may email DOST-TAPI at impakt.tipd@tapi.dost.gov.ph or contact DOST-TAPI’s mobile number 09082447842 (available on Viber or WhatsApp).

The Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) is among the DOST’s service agencies tasked to promote technology commercialization and innovation support services, created under the Executive Order No.128 on 30 January 1987.

For more information about DOST-TAPI’s programs and services, you may email info@tapi.dost.gov.ph, call (02) 8582 1450 loc. 2167, or visit the official DOST-TAPI Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DOST.TAPI.

 

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2GO, DTI Seal Partnership to Boost MSME Supply Chain and Logistics Support

Strengthening the backbone of Filipino entrepreneurship, 2GO Group, Inc., the country’s largest integrated transportation and logistics provider, has officially partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to enhance supply chain and logistics support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), which designates 2GO as a key member of DTI’s Supply Chain and Logistics Center (SCLC). This collaboration positions 2GO as part of DTI’s trusted logistics network, expanding its role beyond transportation to include logistics consultancy and advisory services for DTI-registered enterprises.

From left to right: Francis Chua, Business Unit Head, 2GO Travel; Ethel Concepcion, Corporate Marketing and Communications Head, 2GO Group; Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Mary Jean T. Pacheco; Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque; Frederick DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer, 2GO Group, Inc.; Will Howell, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, 2GO Group, Inc.; and Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head, 2GO Forwarding.

Through the initiative, MSMEs will gain access to customized logistics solutions designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and support sustainable business growth—critical components for enterprises looking to scale in an increasingly competitive market.

“This partnership with 2GO strengthens our ability to respond to the logistics needs of Filipino enterprises,” said DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque. “With partners like 2GO, MSMEs are provided with reliable logistics support that enables cost optimization and business expansion aligned with their operational requirements.”

As part of its commitment to the SCLC, 2GO will actively participate in business matching and market linkage activities, provide logistics consultancy services, and support the establishment of Logistics Support Desks in selected Negosyo Centers across the country.

“Our team is ready to support a wide range of logistics needs—from basic shipping services to more complex supply chain solutions,” shared Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head for Forwarding of 2GO. “We are honored to work alongside the DTI and the SCLC in helping MSMEs connect to markets and grow with confidence.”

The partnership also reinforces 2GO’s broader mission of enabling commerce and mobility across the Philippines. “2GO is both a mover and an enabler,” said Will Howell, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of 2GO Group, Inc. “By improving how goods and people move nationwide, we create opportunities for Filipinos, support livelihoods, and contribute to inclusive economic growth.”

The DTI–2GO collaboration highlights a shared commitment to building a more resilient, accessible, and competitive supply chain ecosystem—empowering MSMEs to thrive and succeed nationwide.

To learn more about 2GO’s logistics solutions and initiatives, visit www.2go.com.ph